D.C. United Academy Update

The D.C. United Developmental Academy U-14s competed in the 2014 Development Academy Regional Futsal Event at the Competitive Edge Sports in King of Prussia, Pa., this past weekend. The U-14s were divided into a Red team and a White team that competed separately at the event.

The red team went 2-2 against NJSA, New York Red Bulls, Bethesda and the Philadelphia Union. The white team went 1-3 over the weekend in several close games against SAC, Bethesda, Philadelphia Union and the New York Red Bulls.

“Overall, I thought the weekend was an opportunity to showcase ourselves in a different environment,” said D.C. United U-14 Head Coach Jonathan Frias. “Although the weekend had it’s up and downs, there were definitely lessons learned that will help the group when we begin the outdoor portion of the spring season on March 1.”

SahrFelix Sandy (Woodbridge, Va.; Northern Virginia Soccer Club) scored numerous goals for the red squad and was able to give the Black-and-Red a strong attacking presence. Chris Durkin (Glen Allen, Va.; Richmond Kickers), also from the red team, provided great leadership and overall play during the entire weekend. Goalkeeper Gio Diaz (Kensington, Md.; Cerritos Academy) played in every single game for both the red and white team and made fantastic saves throughout the weekend.

The Developmental Academy U-13/14 Futsal season gives players the opportunity to gain more technical ability in a competitive setting. Players have three times as many touches on average than the outdoor game and are in a smaller area. Futsal is a valuable platform for younger players where they can improve their technique, awareness and quick decision-making. Futsal is played between two teams of five players, one of which is a goalkeeper. Games include two 20-minute halves with five minutes for halftime. Teams are permitted one timeout per half and no timeouts in any overtime period.